Nissan Lafesta II (CW) photos

Launched in June 2011, the second-generation Nissan Lafesta (chassis code CW) marked a major strategic shift compared to its predecessor. Rather than engineering an all-new dedicated model in-house, Nissan entered an original equipment manufacturer agreement with Mazda, basing the new vehicle on the third-generation Mazda Premacy, known internationally as the Mazda5. Sold exclusively under the Lafesta Highway Star nameplate, the Nissan variant differentiated itself from the Mazda donor by eliminating the flamboyant Nagare wave-like side body creases in favor of clean, smooth door stampings, alongside a bespoke front fascia featuring Nissan's signature chrome grille, unique bumpers, and revised tailgate trim. The five-door compact minivan retained dual sliding rear doors and a flexible three-row cabin capable of seating up to seven occupants via a clever fold-out center seat mechanism in the second row. Mechanically, the CW generation abandoned the previous model's CVT and Alliance platform, adopting Mazda's C-segment architecture and powertrains. Front-wheel-drive models initially utilized a 2.0-liter direct-injection inline-four engine with an idling stop system paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive versions used a port-injected 2.0-liter unit with a four-speed or five-speed automatic. A 2013 technical update introduced Mazda's SkyActiv-G 2.0-liter engine mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox for front-wheel-drive variants, significantly improving fuel efficiency. Tailored strictly for the Japanese domestic market, production concluded in early 2018.